
Upcoming Events

Hudson 1997–2003: Portraits by Phyllis Hjorth
Columbia-Greene Habitat for Humanity & The Spark of Hudson Present:
Hudson 1997–2003: Portraits by Phyllis Hjorth
August 15th - December 19th, 2025
The Spark of Hudson is honored to partner with Columbia-Greene Habitat for Humanity to present an evocative exhibition of painted portraits by artist Phyllis Hjorth, created between 1997 and 2003. These works offer a rare and intimate visual record of life in Hudson at the turn of the century—capturing members of the community in vivid color and bold expression.
Many of the individuals portrayed in these paintings remain unidentified. Through this exhibition, we aim to recognize and reconnect with the lives represented, inviting community members to help restore names and stories to these paintings.
Originally donated to the Columbia County Habitat for Humanity ReStore, the decision to preserve, rather than sell, these portraits reflects the organization’s respect for the people of Hudson, NY. This exhibition honors that gesture by publicly sharing the artwork and creating space for reflection, recognition, and remembrance,
Opening Friday, August 15 from 5-7pm at The Spark of Hudson (502 Union Street, Hudson, NY) with a FREE reception with the artist, Phyllis Hjorth.
We invite all who live in, love, or remember Hudson to view this important collection and help illuminate the histories it holds.

How to be a Barista 101 (for Teens)
Second date added!
Interested in landing a job at a coffee shop — join us for a free, hands-on Workforce Development Training focused on barista skills — led by Fathema Rahman, The Spark’s Workforce Development Coordinator.
In this 3-hour session, teens will learn:
How to operate espresso machines and grinders
Basic drink building: espresso shots, steamed milk, and simple lattes
Café workflow and station setup
Customer service basics: taking orders, working a register, and communicating with customers
Workplace readiness: time management, teamwork, and showing up professionally
Whether you're considering a job in food service or just want to explore what it's like to work in a fast-paced environment, this training will give you skills and confidence to get started.
Open to teens ages 13–19. No prior experience needed. Space is limited — registration required!
10 spots available! Register below

First Step to Finish Line: How to Run Your First Long Distance Race with Jess Laddin
Wanting to run your first long-distance race? Whether that’s a 5K, 10K, half marathon, or marathon, this workshop is for anyone who's been thinking about signing up but may feel intimidation about pulling the trigger.
Led by Jess Laddin, a Community Coordinator at The Spark of Hudson, avid runner and marathon finisher, this presentation and interactive conversation is packed with practical advice. Jess isn’t a fitness professional—just someone who wanted to run long distances and took the first step.
In this presentation, we’ll cover:
How to get started in the running community
Gear do’s and don’ts
Common myths (and what’s actually helpful)
Tips, tricks, and mindset shifts for training
Training resources to help you stay motivated and on track
Whether you’re eyeing your first 5K or your first marathon, you’ll leave with the tools, support, and inspiration to lace up your shoes and sign up for that race you’ve always dreamed of running!
Jessica Laddin has spent nearly the past four years working in community arts programming and youth/ intergenerational workshop curation. From 2021-2024, Jess was the Community Workshop Coordinator at Hudson Hall at the historic Hudson Opera House, where she programmed free community workshops including, but not limited to, Shakespeare Improv, Chess Club, Hip-Hop Dance, and Art Club. Jess is one of the cofounders of Hudson Community Choir (est. 2023), which is a free and non-audition whose mission is to foster an empowering community of singers of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to help them find connection, belonging, and joy through musical performance. Jess is now a Community Coordinator at The Spark of Hudson as of August, 2024. She is an avid marathon runner, a cat lover, and aspiring forensic psychologist. Jess is a graduate of Ithaca College (2021) and holds a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance.
The long distance races she has completed include, but are not limited to:
- Du City Tri Coney Island Half Marathon
- NYRR Brooklyn Half Marathon
- RBC Brooklyn Half Marathon
- NYRR New York Marathon

Freshman Sunset Social
Freshman Rooftop Bash!
Before school starts, we’re going all out on The Spark of Hudson Rooftop! Good vibes, music, games & friends — let’s send off summer in style! 5 PM – 7 PM | Don’t miss it!


Home cheesemaking with Susan Chiappini
Enjoy an afternoon of home cheesemaking at The Spark of Hudson with Susan Chiappini. Attendees will participate in making yogurt, creme fraiche, buttermilk and ricotta using fresh raw milk from Chaseholm Farm in Pine Plains, NY. There will be samples for sharing and discussion of the health benefits and science behind the cheesemaking process in this hands-on workshop.
Coffee and a local cheese board will be served for attendees to enjoy as they learn.
Topics covered will include:
Sourcing milk
Equipment for cheesemaking
Nutritional benefits
Shelf life and storage
Serving suggestions
Susan Chiappini, PhD is a passionate home cook who loves sharing her kitchen knowledge with others and has taught cooking classes in New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and New York State.
Susan works seasonally as the farm kitchen supervisor at Montgomery Place Orchards in Red Hook. She has studied human physiology and nutrition at the Medical College of Virginia, and Columbia University and she is certified as a Master Food Preserver through Cornell Co-operative Extension. She and her husband make their home in Rhinebeck.
$45 per ticket, purchase below

Cookout with Doves Diner
Join us on the Spark rooftop for our Labor Day cookout featuring a pop up from the soon-to-open Doves Diner! Enjoy BLT sandwiches, fresh summer sides, yummy pie, and beverages from Dewey’s.
Think fun tunes, hopscotch and activities for kids, and all the feel-good energy of a neighborhood block party to celebrate the end of summer. See you there!
Spark Rooftop
4–8 PM

Intro to Vibe Coding with Albert Wenger
Curious about coding but not sure where to start? Join us for a beginner-friendly introduction to vibecoding. Learn how to use AI to turn your imagination into working code, such as a dynamic chart, interactive illustration, or engaging game. Whether you’re an artist, writer, student, or simply intrigued, this workshop will show you how to get started. No experience needed—just bring your curiosity and get ready to explore what’s possible when code meets creativity.

Second Life Studio: An Upcycling Art Workshop
Second Life Studio: An Upcycling Art Workshop in collaboration with the Columbia-Greene Habitat for Humanity ReStore.
Join us at Second Life Studio for a hands-on workshop where we turn old, donated materials from Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore into creative new works of art.
You’ll get access to a wide range of salvaged items—wood, metal, furniture parts, and more—and use them to build something unique. All tools and supplies are provided, and no experience is needed.
This is a great chance to get creative, reduce waste, and give new life to old objects.
Open to all ages and skill levels. Materials provided.
FREE! Register Below!
Second Life Studio is in tandem with exhibition Hudson 1997-2003: Portraits by Phyllis Hjorth on view at The Spark of Hudson through December 19th, 2025.

Ancient Forest Ecology Walk at Wally Farms
Join Farmscape Ecology at Wally Farms for a guided walk to explore the ecology and rich history of ancient forests. Together, we’ll learn what makes a forest ancient, why we consider them worthy of special attention, and how they support incredible biodiversity.
This immersive walk invites participants to see the forest with new eyes—understanding the connections between history, ecology, and conservation, and how these insights can shape the way we experience the land today.
Attendees will enjoy coffee, tea, and light refreshments before we set out on our walk.
This event is part of Seeding Knowledge: A Wally Farms + Spark of Hudson Learning Series.

Stargazing at Wally Farms
Join the Mid-Hudson Astronomical Association at Wally Farms for an evening under the stars. Guided by knowledgable astronomers, we’ll explore the night sky through telescopes and with the naked eye, learning to identify constellations and planets.
Participants will learn about the stars from both scientific and cultural perspectives, developing a deeper understanding of the celestial bodies and their origins.
We’ll have herbal tea, hot cider, and light refreshments on hand to stay warm as we take it all in from clearing at the farm. Bring a blanket or chair, dress in warmer clothes, and come ready to wonder!
This event is part of Seeding Knowledge: A Wally Farms + Spark of Hudson Learning Series.

BBQ Workshop with Larry Walker
Join Larry Walker, restorative justice specialist, Hudson native, and founder of What’s Really Good, for a rooftop BBQ workshop at The Spark. Larry will share his love for cooking southern barbecue–based dishes while offering tips and techniques for BBQing. Come hungry, learn the secrets behind delicious family-style barbecue, and enjoy great food with neighbors against the stunning backdrop of The Spark’s rooftop terrace.


Hudson Financial Wellness Week
In partnership with City of Hudson and The Spark of Hudson, Sunmark Credit Union is thrilled to host "Financial Wellness Week," October 7 - 9 for all Hudson residents and employees. These free, educational seminars are designed to help people achieve financial wellness, plan for retirement, and navigate the path to homeownership. Whether you're just starting out, working to improve your finances, seeking money management tips, interested in home loan options or you're starting to plan for retirement, Sunmark Credit Union is dedicated to helping people reach their financial goals during any stage of life.

Physics Circle
The Physics Circle is a space where folks come together to learn physics collaboratively. We’ll watch youtube videos, explore phenomena, and share insights. No prior expertise required. Just bring your curiosity.

Infant and Young Child CPR Workshop
FREE Friends & Family CPR Workshop — Monday, August 18 from 5–7 PM at The Spark of Hudson on Union Street!
This life-saving event is specifically designed for caregivers and families of infants and young children (ages 0–5). Learn CPR skills that could make all the difference in an emergency.
The workshop is facilitated by Dave Yates of Valatie Rescue Squad, who has been leading these trainings across the county to help empower families and early childhood caregivers.
Participants will receive a certificate of completion at the end of the session and walk away with essential skills to help protect the children they care for.
This free event is a collaboration between:
Valatie Rescue Squad
Family Resource Centers of Columbia County
The Spark of Hudson (thank you for generously hosting!)
While the workshop is free, donations are welcome! You can support these community organizations by:
Bringing diapers, wipes, or gently used clothing (ages 0–5) for families who participate in Family Resource Center’s programs
Making a monetary donation to any of the three partners:
https://www.familyresourcecenterscc.org/donate
https://www.valatierescue.org/donate
https://sparkofhudson.org/donate
Let’s come together to learn, prepare, and protect our youngest community members. Register today!

Birthing Class with Hudson Doula Care
Join the Family Resource Centers of Columbia County and Hudson Doula Care for a free community birthing class led by local doula Abby Larsen! We'll walk through the stages of birth, explore common fears, and work together on creating personal birthing plans in a warm, supportive space.
When: Monday, August 18th, 3:00–4:30 PM
Where: The Hub at Spark of Hudson, 502 Union St., Hudson, NY
This Spark-affiliated event is free to attend, thanks to the generosity of The Spark Hudsonfor donating the space and grant support from the HRBT Foundation and the Ackerman Foundation.
If you would like to make a donation to the community organizations involved please use the following links.
www.familyresourcecenterscc.org/donate
Open to all expecting caregivers in Columbia or Greene County.

Create Miniatures with Leo Grannis
Join us for a fun and interactive, all-ages workshop with artist Leopold Grannis!
In this hands-on session, you'll create your very own miniature figure using found materials—and take it home at the end of the day. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned maker, you'll learn creative techniques from an expert in a relaxed, welcoming environment. All materials provided!

Sound Meditations with Empty Space
Join us for an immersive sound meditation designed to awaken your inner stillness and expand your capacity to listen, both inwardly and outwardly. This session weaves together breathwork, gentle vocalization, and resonant sound to help you regulate the nervous system and drop into deeper states of presence.
We’ll begin with guided breathwork to clear stagnant energy and ground the body, followed by simple vocal toning practices that invite you to explore the healing vibration of your own voice. As your body softens and your awareness opens, we invite you participate in active listening in the rich, meditative tones of singing bowls, chimes, and other harmonic instruments.
This is a space to let go, to attune, and to receive.
Please bring a yoga mat.
Registration required. 15 spots available.

Sound Meditations with Empty Space
Join us for an immersive sound meditation designed to awaken your inner stillness and expand your capacity to listen, both inwardly and outwardly. This session weaves together breathwork, gentle vocalization, and resonant sound to help you regulate the nervous system and drop into deeper states of presence.
We’ll begin with guided breathwork to clear stagnant energy and ground the body, followed by simple vocal toning practices that invite you to explore the healing vibration of your own voice. As your body softens and your awareness opens, we invite you participate in active listening in the rich, meditative tones of singing bowls, chimes, and other harmonic instruments.
This is a space to let go, to attune, and to receive.
Please bring a yoga mat.
Registration required. 15 spots available.

Entrepreneurship Circle: AI for Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneur Circle – August 15th, 12noon
Join us for a collaborative, curiosity-driven session on how entrepreneurs are exploring the world of AI—what’s working, what’s not, and what’s next.
In this special peer-produced edition of the Entrepreneur Circle, each participant is invited to bring one way you’ve used AI (or want to use it) in your work—whether it’s for writing, planning, marketing, organizing, or just experimenting. Share your favorite tools, failed attempts, surprising wins, or big questions.
No tech background needed—just a willingness to show up, share, and learn from each other. You’ll walk away with real-life insights, tool tips, and a clearer sense of how AI can (or can’t) support your entrepreneurial journey.
Bring a laptop if you like, and let’s build this knowledge together.

How to Tidy Up Without Taking Over - Supporting Your Elders at Home with Raena Baldwin
Join professional cleaner Raena Baldwin for a thoughtful workshop on navigating the unique challenges of helping elders maintain a clean and comfortable home.
Whether you're supporting aging parents, relatives, or neighbors, this session will offer practical strategies for decluttering, cleaning, and organizing elder spaces in a way that respects autonomy, preserves dignity, and fosters connection. Learn how to assess needs, have productive conversations, and create systems that actually stick.
Raena brings years of experience working hands-on with families to make homes more functional and peaceful. Her approach blends compassion, structure, and deep respect for the people she serves.
Free to attend. All are welcome—especially adult children, caregivers, and community members supporting elder loved ones.

Why Wednesday?
We’re excited to kick off Why Wednesday -- where The Spark of Hudson Founders Gigi and Albert will share the big ideas behind The Spark, Wally Farms, Dove’s Diner, and the Eutopia Foundation. It’s a chance to hear their why, ask questions, and connect more deeply with the vision we’re building together.
Join us on Wednesday, August 13th from 1:30 - 2:30pm at The Spark.
Come if you’re curious, come if you’re invested, come if you just want to hear a good story. Feel free to share with -- the more the merrier!

How to be a Barista 101 (for Teens)
WORKSHOP IS NOW FULL!
Interested in landing a job at a coffee shop — join us for a free, hands-on Workforce Development Training focused on barista skills — led by Fathema Rahman, The Spark’s Workforce Development Coordinator.
In this 3-hour session, teens will learn:
How to operate espresso machines and grinders
Basic drink building: espresso shots, steamed milk, and simple lattes
Café workflow and station setup
Customer service basics: taking orders, working a register, and communicating with customers
Workplace readiness: time management, teamwork, and showing up professionally
Whether you're considering a job in food service or just want to explore what it's like to work in a fast-paced environment, this training will give you skills and confidence to get started.
Open to teens ages 13–19. No prior experience needed. Space is limited — registration required!
15 spots available! Register below

The Empowerment Project: Education Records Organizer Binder
Join us for a hands-on workshop with Amy Snyder, Regional Coordinator/Education Advocate, and Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager/Education Specialist.
This in-person training is designed for parents and guardians of children navigating the Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE), Committee on Special Education (CSE), or 504 Plans for students with special education needs.
Together, we’ll get your child’s educational records organized into a comprehensive recordkeeping binder. This interactive workshop will help you stay organized and better prepared to support your child’s education throughout the CPSE, CSE, or 504 process.
We will provide binders and related materials.
Please bring the following items with you:
All of your child's educational records from the past two years
IEPs, evaluations, behavior plans, report cards, and any other documents you believe should be included
Learn more about us at www.empowermentproject.net


Wealth Builders Youth SummerFest: Sundaes and Savings
This free event, hosted by Greylock Federal Credit Union, will feature a variety of wealth building games and, of course, delicious ice cream. Ages 13-22.
Happening on the 3rd floor Sky Deck at The Spark of Hudson

How to Optimize Your iPhone
NEW DATE! AUGUST 6TH! Learn how to get the most out of your iPhone in this step-by-step workshop. We’ll walk through key settings and features that can make your phone easier to use, more secure, and more efficient.
This workshop will cover:
How to adjust settings to save battery life
How to manage storage and clear up space
How to use Focus mode, Do Not Disturb, and Notifications
How to set up important privacy and security settings
How to use accessibility features like text size, voice control, and magnifier
Tips for organizing your apps and using widgets
This session is designed for everyday iPhone users—no technical background needed. Bring your phone and follow along as we go through everything together.

Writing Club
In this twice a month, hour-long session, we’ll gather for casual conversation about writing. What challenges are we experiencing with craft or in our practice? How can we motivate each other (and ourselves) to stay accountable to longer projects? We’ll also write!

SWAY Teen Crew Boot Camp
Are you a Columbia County teen curious about a career in film and television? Join us for a week-long, hands-on summer camp, designed specifically for ages 15 to 19.
As part of the Stockade Works Access Youth (SWAY) initiative, Teen Crew Boot Camp is a 5-day workforce development program led by experienced industry professionals to provide introductions to several on-set departments, preparing teens for the exciting and fast-paced world of working in film and TV production.

Exhibition Closing Walk
Stop by The Spark anytime between 9AM and 3PM on Friday, August 1st for a final look at Portraits of Hudson by Chad Weckler. Grab a bagel or coffee from Circles Bagel Counter, and walk through the CoLab and Second Floor Hub to view the portraits before they come down.
We'll also be offering short tours of The Spark Building throughout the day!
Additionally, all visitors can enter a raffle to win a custom digital portrait by Chad (Winner to be announced by the end of the day).
We hope to see you there!

Tell A Tale: Community Storytelling Circle with Jayden Cross
Come share a story, share some food, and share in community. Tell a Tale is an intergenerational storytelling circle led by local resident Jayden Cross, inviting neighbors to pass down traditions, memories, recipes, and life lessons.
Longtime Hudson residents are especially encouraged to join and help preserve the voices that have shaped our town. Meet new faces, connect with old ones, and celebrate what it means to belong—through stories that live on when we tell them.
"Don’t let it leave with you."
All ages welcome and encouraged.



Intro to Sourdough with Chef Tepper
Curious about sourdough but not sure where to start? Join us for a hands-on introduction to sourdough with Chef Tepper, founder and head chef of Circles. Tepper will guide you through the fundamentals of sourdough—from building and maintaining a starter to understanding fermentation. You’ll leave with the knowledge to begin baking at home.
Circles began as a roving sourdough pizza and bagel pop-up out of Lil' Deb’s Oasis in Hudson, NY, known for food that’s surprising, thoughtful, and spicy. Today, Circles Bagels operates a popular counter at 502 Union St., open Friday through Monday.
No experience necessary—just bring your curiosity and an appetite for learning.

Watt's in Your Hands?
Presented in partnership with the Clean Energy Hub
Ready to take control of your energy use and lower your utility bills? Join us for Watt’s in Your Hands?, a free, hands-on workshop designed to help Hudson residents make the switch to cleaner, safer, and more affordable energy solutions.
We’ll break down practical steps you can take to reduce energy waste, improve home efficiency, and access programs that support a greener lifestyle. Plus, every participant will receive a free home energy kit to help you start saving right away.
Come with your questions, leave with tools in hand—and real steps toward a cleaner future.
50 spots available! FREE and open to all!

How to Build a Cheese Board with grace pullin
Join Grace Pullin—Spark’s own special events coordinator — for a hands-on workshop in the art of cheese board building. This interactive class blends culinary creativity with local food education as Grace shares tips on crafting beautiful, balanced boards while teaching about Hudson Valley dairy, sustainable farming practices, and the nutritional value of local cheeses.
Whether you’re prepping for a party or just love cheese, you’ll walk away with practical skills, a deeper appreciation for regional producers, and of course CHEESE!
Free to attend. All materials provided. Spots are limited—register now!

CANCELLED: Writing Club
CANCELLED FOR JULY 22ND. In this twice a month, hour-long session, we’ll gather for casual conversation about writing. What challenges are we experiencing with craft or in our practice? How can we motivate each other (and ourselves) to stay accountable to longer projects? We’ll also write!

How to Stay Tidy with Tiny Humans led by Raena Baldwin
Between diapers, snacks, and the never-ending game of "where did that go?", keeping your home in order during the early years of parenting can feel impossible. But it doesn’t have to be. In this practical and compassionate workshop, organizer and systems expert Raena Baldwin returns to The Spark to share realistic, judgment-free strategies for creating routines that actually work when you have little ones at home.
Whether you're in the thick of newborn nights or navigating the unpredictable energy of toddler days, you'll leave with:
Tools for setting up a manageable home rhythm
Ideas for simplifying daily tasks (even when you're sleep-deprived)
Tips for organizing your space and your time
A sense of encouragement that you’re not alone in the chaos
This workshop is for any caregiver looking to feel more grounded, supported, and in control—whatever that means in your current season.
About the Facilitator:
Raena Baldwin is the founder of Fresh Start, a personal organizing company that specializes in helping individuals and families reclaim their spaces and routines with care. While her company offers traditional cleaning services, Raena’s true passion lies in creating home systems that support her clients’ lives. From redesigning rooms to implementing chore routines, her work is tailored, holistic, and deeply rooted in empathy. She believes that every home—and every family—deserves support that meets them where they are.

For Parents: How To Talk To Your Kids About Sex In The Real World (Before They Learn It From Porn)
Join Cindy Gallop, founder and CEO of MakeLoveNotPorn, for a conversation about updating 'The Talk', and why it isn't, and should never be, just one talk, but ongoing communication: how to educate your children on what sex, love, and intimacy really look like and are really all about. In this engaging session designed for parents, Cindy will share a short presentation followed by an open, interactive discussion on how to ensure that you equip your children with the best possible start on how to navigate dating, relationships, consent, pleasure, and connection in the real world—not the porn world.
This event is a judgment-free space to ask questions, share ideas, and get real about sex. It's for parents of children of all ages - Cindy recommends beginning conversations as early as possible, and will provide simple, easy ways to do that.
Cindy Gallop is a well-known entrepreneur, speaker, and social activist who has spent her career challenging cultural norms around sex, gender, and power. In 2009, she launched MakeLoveNotPorn, a platform designed to provide honest, real-life stories about sex and intimacy—offering a healthy alternative to the often distorted perspectives of mainstream pornography.

Entrepreneurship Club with Special Guest Cindy Gallop
Cindy Gallop is a legendary entrepreneur, advertising icon, and fearless advocate for social change. After making waves as the former chair of ad agency BBH, Cindy founded MakeLoveNotPorn, a groundbreaking platform that challenges toxic narratives around sex and promotes real, authentic human connection. Known for her radical candor and visionary thinking, Cindy is a globally sought-after speaker and startup advisor who's redefining entrepreneurship, one bold idea at a time.
She’s stopping by The Spark of Hudson for an open, informal discussion — and you're invited.
Bring your questions, challenges, issues, problems - Cindy is all about finding practical solutions!
Register Below!

Waving Session with francesca avani
Every third Thursday of the month, Bridge Street Dance is collaborating with The Spark of Hudson to host waving sessions! Waving is a style of street dance that is about creating illusion, connecting to your inner flow, and so much more. These sessions are *not* classes - these will be a space to connect, practice, session, and exchange all things waving. We will exchange and witness one another in this art form. Come flow with us!
Bridge Street Dance is dedicated to creating spaces where creativity, authenticity, and artistic growth thrive. Through curated events—showcases, workshops, and residencies—our focus is on the exploration of emotions and storytelling through innovative dance.

Book Talk and Storytelling Workshop: Something Between Us with author Anand Pandian
Join us for a book talk and interactive storytelling and writing workshop with anthropologist Anand Pandian, author of Something Between Us: The Everyday Walls of American Life, and How to Take Them Down.
Pandian began working on this book in response to the 2016 U.S. presidential election. Disturbed by the rise in anti-immigrant rhetoric and the growing political polarization, he set out to understand what was fueling these divisions—and how people might begin to bridge them. Over several years, he traveled across the country, engaging with Americans from many walks of life, including police officers, urban planners, activists, truck drivers, and community organizers.
Through these encounters, Pandian explored how the physical and cultural structures of everyday life—homes designed for privacy, vehicles built like armor, media bubbles, and even our own ideas about safety and identity—can reinforce separation and suspicion. Something Between Us examines these “everyday walls” and how they shape our ability to connect with others, especially those whose lives or beliefs differ from our own.
At the same time, the book is grounded in hope. It highlights the small but powerful ways people are pushing back against division—through mutual aid, community-building, and acts of deep empathy. Pandian invites readers to imagine new ways of living in relation to one another, based on care, curiosity, and solidarity.
Participants will learn about the book then engage in a storytelling and writing workshop led by Pandian designed to explore personal experiences of difference, connection, and civic life. This workshop will invite attendees to reflect together on their own positions in relation to others—both familiar and unfamiliar—and to consider storytelling as a means of social and political connection. No prior writing experience is required. All materials will be provided.
Presented in partnership with Spotty Dog Books & Ale. Books will be available for purchase at the event. Free and open to all.

Yoga & Diaper Drive w/ The Soft SPot NY & Lava Yoga
Join The Soft Spot NY for a rooftop yoga class and diaper drive at 9am on Monday, July 14th at The Spark of Hudson. Amanda Huggins of Lava Yoga will be leading us in a free outdoor class on The Spark’s rooftop deck.
Please bring a new, unopened package of diapers or pull-ups for donation. Lava Yoga will provide mats.
Your donations will benefit our local National Diaper Bank Network members - the Berkshire Community Diaper Project and The Food Pantries for the Capital District.
Registration is capped at 20 spots, with a waitlist available.